A MENTHOL CIGARETTE IS JUST ANOTHER CIGARETTE

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FDA has concluded “that menthol in cigarettes is not associated with an increase in tobacco-related diseases to the user” when compared to non-menthol cigarettes.1

Numerous scientific studies demonstrate menthol cigarettes are not more addictive, nor result in increased inhalation of smoke compared to non-menthol cigarettes.2

Banning menthol will lead to unintended consequences

8.5 % to 21%

FUEL AN ALREADY WIDESPREAD ILLEGAL TOBACCO MARKET

•Per the U.S. Department of State, “cigarette smuggling is a growing threat to U.S. national interests…and fuels transnational crime, corruption and terrorism.”3
•The Institute of Medicine wrote in a 2015 report to Congress: the U.S. illegal cigarette market was between 8.5% and 21% of the total market.4


8.5 % to ???%

LAW ENFORCEMENT GROUPS SAY A BAN ON MENTHOL WOULD:5

• Increase the number of criminals on the street
• Make criminals out of law-abiding citizens
• Create more problems between law enforcement and communities of color

There is no reason to treat menthol cigarettes any differently than non-menthol cigarettes. Smoking rates for menthol and non-menthol cigarettes are at historic lows and continue to decline. Furthermore, Massachusetts’ 2020 menthol ban did not result in lower smoking rates.

1FDA Preliminary Scientific Evaluation of the Possible Public Health Effects of Menthol Versus Nonmenthol Cigarettes, (2013).
2 Addiction: Fagan et al. (2015); Hyland et al. (2002).Inhalation: Gunawan & Juliano(2020); Ahijevychet al. (1996).
3U.S. Department of State et al, The Global Illicit Trade in Tobacco: A Threat to National Security (2015).
4National Academy of Sciences, Engineering & Med., Understanding the U.S. Illicit Tobacco Market (2015).
5ATF, FOP, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), Alabama State Trooper Association

This material was prepared to facilitate discussion with policymakers regarding government policy and tobacco harm reduction. The data presented are solely for the purpose of addressing public policy issues regarding tobacco products and RAIS is not responsible for the content of referenced publications. The views expressed by cited references may not reflect the views of RAIS. RAIS does not make brand-specific claims regarding Reynolds' brands. Nothing contained in this document should be misconstrued to the contrary. No tobacco product is safe, all tobacco products are addictive. Youth should never use tobacco products. Tobacco product consumers who are concerned about their health should quit. © 2022 RAI Services Company

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